Cowboys players weigh in on Huddle 94 one year after Kneeland's death

Dallas Cowboys players are approaching the first anniversary of Marshawn Kneeland's death with a focus on internal support systems. The team lost the linebacker on Nov. 6, 2025, following a police chase and a three-hour search that ended in a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The squad is currently preparing for Friday's commemorative date by reflecting on Huddle 94, a program named for Kneeland's jersey number. This initiative supplements the organization's existing mental health resources by hosting roundtable discussions led by current players. These smaller gatherings allow teammates to discuss pressures from football and their personal lives without the formality of traditional counseling sessions.

Quarterback Dak Prescott said the program created space for conversations about life and stress. He noted that he wondered whether such a resource might have been available to Kneeland before his death. During the search for Kneeland, police received information indicating he had expressed suicidal thoughts. His final appearance with the Cowboys came in a 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, where he returned a blocked punt for a touchdown.

Prescott recalled a team videoconference held shortly after Kneeland's death, which occurred during the team's bye week. He described the moment as difficult and highlighted the words of defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, who spoke to the group. Both men have personal experience with the loss of siblings to suicide. Prescott's brother Jace died in 2020, while Thomas's sister Ella died in 2018. Thomas later established The Defensive Line foundation to prevent youth suicide and promote mental health awareness.

Following the tragedy, the Cowboys worked with team mental health clinician Dr. Heather Twedell to arrange counseling sessions for players. The organization also held a vigil at The Star. Throughout the remainder of the season, players maintained tributes to Kneeland. Osa Odighizuwa carried a flag displaying the number 94 onto the field and placed Kneeland's jersey near the bench.

Financial support was directed toward Kneeland's then-unborn child, with contributions coming from the organization, players, and coaches. The Gene and Jerry Jones Family Foundation purchased equipment for the football program at Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, in his memory. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb stated that the public profile of athletes often obscures their mental health needs. He described Kneeland as the first teammate he had lost and said the grief extended to the linebacker's family and close friends.

Prescott said that remembrance is part of his daily routine. He included Kneeland in his pre-game prayers along with other players who can no longer compete. Prescott said the loss reinforces the need to appreciate life's moments and communicate the value of loved ones.